My flight arrives in Orlando at 9:14 am. We take Magical Express to Contemporary. Would we be able to make lunch @ 12 in Downtown Disney? Would 145 be better? Or do you think we will be starved and eating at Contempo Café would be best? :)”

Hi Lori,

Since I'm a guy that plans his Disney vacations around dining experiences, you've come to the right place with your question!

When I fly into Orlando with my family, we usually arrive at around the same time you'll be landing so I know the dilemma you're facing.

With respect to your first question...you might be cutting it a little too close if you're planning to land at 9:14, ride Disney's Magical Express to Disney's Contemporary Resort, check-in, then catch a bus to Downtown Disney for lunch at noon.

Is it doable? Maybe.

When it comes to running short on time when a dining reservation is looming, that stress mixed with hanger pangs is a volatile mix for me. Therefore, if I were in your shoes, I'd either:

1) Go for your idea of having lunch at the Contempo Cafe; or

2) Grab a quick snack at the hotel and plan for that later lunch at Downtown Disney. Contemporary Grounds is a cool little coffee shop in the lobby of Disney's Contemporary Resort and they have a great assortment of treats that might help to put enough fuel in your tank so you can make the trip to Downtown Disney.

Here's a little tip from your buddy Derek:

Speaking of snacks and Downtown Disney...most guests only think of Downtown Disney's dining options in terms of the signature restaurants like House of Blues, The Rainforest Cafe, or Fulton's Crab House. They're all fantastic restaurants, but don't forget that Downtown Disney has some amazing snack options as well. (One of my new favorites is the Meatball Cone at Marketplace Snacks!)

I hope that helps! If you should have any other questions, please feel free to write back and I'll be happy to help in any way that I can.

Meet the Panelist: Derek, Virginia

Whether you're traveling with infants or preschoolers, planning a family reunion, taking a romantic trip for two, or even traveling solo - I've been in your shoes. I'd love to help you make the most out of your next Disney vacation!Learn More About Derek

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